Losing to My Substitute (Katerina and Joshu)
Substitute 89

Chapter 19

However, Jean didn't expect that the project she thought would go smoothly would encounter issues during settlement, being accused of plagiarism.

"The Snow family hot spring resort is suspected of copying a Croatian project!"

As the news broke, the Snow family's stock plummeted, and shareholders demanded a meeting.

Outside the villa, countless flashes lit up as Duke and Jean stepped out.

It was unclear how the media had gotten their address, but they crowded at the entrance.

Duke shielded Jean behind him, and amid the pushing crowd, they struggled to get into the car.

Her friend called, advising Jean to lay low for a while.

Jean knew hiding wouldn't solve the problem.

At the shareholders' meeting, Berton faced intense criticism from Winni's father, demanding he terminate the collaboration with John's team immediately.

Besides withholding the final payment, they would also sue Jean for exorbitant damages.

Berton felt overwhelmed by the old man's relentless accusations.

In the office, Winni approached, wanting to massage Berton's temples, but he grabbed her hand.

"Who let you in here?"

Winni looked hurt. "Berton, don't blame my dad. He's just looking out for the company's interests. But I've already pleaded for Jean. Even if she did copy, we won't sue her." Berton's anger flared at her words. "Jean wouldn't plagiarize!"

"I know, Berton, but all the evidence points to her. As the main designer for the hot spring resort, she can't escape responsibility.

All we can do is ensure Jean doesn't face huge compensation fees. Don't worry; my dad listens to me. I'll plead for her."

Berton contemplated for a moment, still suspicious of Winni's intentions. "How do you know about this? Why are you being so kind?"

Losing to My Substitute

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He vividly remembered Winni's previous insults toward Jean, convinced that her animosity hadn't

faded.

Tears welled in Winni's eyes as she feigned innocence. "Berton, I just want you to be happy. I don't want anything else. Do you really have to doubt me?"

Berton, seeing her willingness to help, pretended to be anxious as he held her hand. "Then I'll rely on you to manage the public relations and control the narrative." Winni, watching Berton's attitude shift due to Jean's situation, felt a surge of resentment. Why was Berton so focused on that deaf girl?

Outwardly, she maintained her understanding demeanor, nodding in agreement.

"Don't worry, I've already instructed people to handle it. We'll have Jean write an apology statement, and this will blow over quickly."

But behind the scenes, Winni bribed numerous media outlets, eager to escalate the situation,

wanting to see if Jean would have the face to stay in the country.

Jean pushed open the office door to find Berton and Winni huddled together.

"Thank you for your kindness, Miss Byron, but there's no need for your concern. An apology

statement isn't necessary because I didn't plagiarize at all."

"We have thirty minutes until John's press conference, and I would appreciate Mr. Snow's presence. If Miss Byron is interested, she's welcome to join." Winni froze for a moment before regaining her composure. "Oh, I'll be waiting for Miss Collins'

clarification at the press conference."

She wanted to see how Jean would turn the tide on what was already a done deal.

At the press conference, media questions flew in one after another.

"Miss Vivian, are you involved in the plagiarism of the Croatian hotel design by the female architect

Cathy in the hot spring resort project?"

"How did you secure this opportunity among so many designers?"

"You've been called the youngest and most talented designer. Is that reputation undeserved?" Losing to My Substitute.